Leaves are parading down the street

Leaves are parading down the street

Shaking and rattling an out-of-season Mardi Gras

The wind has settled over the valley

Congealed into an oppressive chill

The sidewalk has become cold as the heart

Of a planet shelled in city foundations

So when we step outside, let me stand on your shoes

To preserve my naked toes from the creeping cold

And perhaps, while I am so incredibly close

I will clench my fingers in your shirt

And give you a warm winter kiss